inonickname wrote:Are there guidelines on this? Obviously the average cop doesn't carry scales and a chronograph, but if it were tested what would the guidelines be? Obviously tested at intended manufacturer pressure (eg. if it's labeled "fill to 200 bar") and using standard ammunition. But homemade guns don't have "manufacturer designated fill pressures" or "standard ammunition"- it seems that if they really wanted to pin you for it, they could. Use 200 more psi than intended? Use a projectile 10 times heavier than you wold use?
It is my understanding that the "capable of" is taken to mean "without substantial modification", most rifles have adjustable valves that are now being made tamper-proof/evident and manufacturers tend to set power levels at 10-11 ft/lbs with medium weight pellets to account for the fact that heavier pellets will yield higher muzzle energies.
The law is a little vague but for example, if you're caught commiting an illegal activiting while in possesion of a heavy projectile you made yourself and used/intended to use, the law allows them to test your rifle with this projectile and prosecute accordingly.
I think the conventional wisdom applies, keep a low profile, use your launcher responsibly and on private land and you're unlikely to be prosecuted.
